An event marking the 35th anniversary of Azerbaijan's restoration of independence was held in Eskişehir, Türkiye, bringing together government officials, academics, civil society representatives and Azerbaijani students to celebrate the country's history and its close ties with Türkiye.
The gathering was organized by the Eskişehir Azerbaijanis Association with the support of the Federation of Turkish Azerbaijani Associations (TADEF).
Representatives of government institutions from both countries, scholars, community leaders, heads of non-governmental organizations and Azerbaijani students studying in Eskişehir attended the event.
Participants discussed the historical significance of Azerbaijan's struggle for independence, the importance of preserving statehood traditions and the need to pass national and cultural values on to future generations.
The gathering also highlighted the development of relations between Azerbaijan and Türkiye, emphasizing the longstanding cultural, historical and political ties between the two countries.
Siraj Yaguboglu, deputy chairman of the Eskişehir Azerbaijanis Association, addressed participants and spoke about the historical importance of Azerbaijan's restoration of state independence in 1991.
He emphasized the need to safeguard the country's sovereignty and preserve its national identity, traditions and cultural heritage.
Professor Burhan Sayılır, director of the Heydar Aliyev Application and Research Center, also addressed the gathering, sharing his views on the significance of the anniversary celebrations.
Sayılır had participated in the International Azerbaijan Congress held at Anadolu University, which brought together academics and researchers to discuss topics related to Azerbaijan.
During the event, Javid Aydin, chairman of the Eskişehir Azerbaijanis Association, presented Professor Sayılır with a commemorative plaque in recognition of his contribution to organizing the congress and his cooperation with the association.
In his closing remarks, Aydin stressed the importance of protecting Azerbaijan's independence, preserving its cultural heritage and further strengthening the friendship and brotherly relations between Azerbaijan and Türkiye.
He also thanked the organizations and individuals who contributed to the event's success.
The gathering concluded with a cultural program celebrating Azerbaijani traditions and heritage.
The event highlighted the continued efforts of the Azerbaijani diaspora in Türkiye to promote national values, raise awareness of Azerbaijan's history and strengthen cultural and social cooperation between the two countries.
Azerbaijan restored its state independence on October 18, 1991, following decades of Soviet rule. The 2026 anniversary marks 35 years since that historic milestone.